Expert in the area of anxiety, panic attacks, depression, navigating relationship concerns, communication effectiveness, self exploration, self-acceptance, emotion regulation, trauma, parenting skills
Children, Adolescents, and Adults
Offers Virtual and In-Person Appointments
About Me
Hi!
I know all too well how scary it can be to take the leap and begin counseling. It can be out of your comfort zone, leaving you with many questions about how and if it will work. I had the same thoughts before I went to counseling for the first time.
I have always struggled with some level of anxiety; at times feeling unbearable. However, my life changed the day I experienced my first panic attack. I remember feeling confused and scared. The rapid heartbeat, tingling sensation, numbness; I was feeling it all. I was in full panic mode and had no idea how to cope with what I was feeling.
I spent the next several years feeling lost, angry, and anxious about my new reality. I had no idea how to control my panic attacks and the harder I tried to ignore them, the more persistent they became. All I could do was think about the times before my panic attacks and how I wouldn’t get those back.
I tried many things to overcome my anxiety and I eventually decided to add therapy to the mix. Although I cannot say I’ll never have a panic attack again, I do feel I have slowly regained control over my life. I realized that you can’t fight anxiety, but have to learn to accept it as it is and know that despite what your thoughts try to convince you of, you can feel safe and overcome anything.
I knew before that I wanted to be a counselor. I have always enjoyed helping others. However, I have gained a new perspective over the years, especially after the anxiety and panic attacks I have had to learn to cope with.
I know that although everyone’s story is different, I want to help others overcome obstacles that seem impossible and help people realize how strong they are. Therapy is all about growing, gaining self-acceptance, and learning to believe in yourself. I am passionate about helping others who are struggling and feel they have no other place to go. Life will include ups and downs and be overwhelming at times.
No matter where you are in your journey, I believe there is always hope – regardless of what life has thrown at you or what you’ve tried before.
I once was in the same position. Not knowing what my future would look like or if I would succeed in overcoming my battles. There is not one path, but many that can lead to hope and growth. I will help you find the answers to what is getting in the way and I will show you how to get the life you want. I will help you learn how to do the things you used to do before the anxiety or other struggles that have occurred. I want to normalize mental health and help others realize they are not alone.
You deserve better than just getting by, you deserve to thrive.
Ready to Talk?
If you want to find answers to what you are experiencing, contact me now to book an appointment so that we can together begin your journey towards healing.
When working with client’s, I follow my professional ethical guidelines which are the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics. Below you can review these ethical guidelines so that you are also informed on how I make ethical decisions.
Ashley works with individuals 6+
NC LCMHCA # A19068
NPI # 1932881927
Ashley’s clinical supervisor is Lauren Stegall, LCMHC, NCC, LPC, LRT/CTRS, Qualified Supervisor (#QS134345), whose contact information is lauren@stegallcounseling.com and (704) 234-8003.